Photo Credits: South Australian Tourism Commission

The Tour Down Under is Australia’s premier professional cycling event and the most celebrated bike race in the southern hemisphere, drawing elite international riders and passionate fans to South Australia each summer. First launched in 1999, the Tour Down Under has grown into a highlight of the global cycling calendar and the opening race of the UCI World Tour season, attracting top men’s and women’s teams from around the world. Over 10 days in January, the race showcases a thrilling mix of fast flat sprints, technical courses, and challenging climbs that wind through Adelaide’s city streets, the iconic Adelaide Hills and the picturesque vineyards, coastal towns and rolling countryside of regional South Australia.

Beyond the elite competition, the Festival of Cycling brings the entire region to life with the City of Adelaide Tour Village in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga,  a vibrant hub of team zones, family events, live entertainment and interactive activities for all ages. Everyday across the event you’ll find free community experiences, podium presentations, ride-outs like group and challenge rides, and culture-rich events that celebrate South Australia’s food, wine and outdoor lifestyle.

The race courses vary each year, but memorable highlights often include dramatic finishes on the famous Willunga Hill climb, fast coastal stages, and the electrifying prologue through Adelaide’s CBD. The heart of the event is based in Adelaide, South Australia, with stages also taking riders through regional centres like Tanunda, Willunga, Uraidla and Stirling, all within approximately 70–130 km of Adelaide’s city centre, making it easy for visitors to explore world-class cycling and scenic South Australian landscapes in one unforgettable festival.